M.A., NET, JRF, Ph. D. Assistant Professor, Thoubal College, Thoubal, Singjamei Sougrakpam Leikai, Imphal West, Manipur
Online published on 2 September, 2019.
Manipur is well known for its archaeological sites and remains. Historical sites, monuments, cave, inscriptions, coins rock-shelters etc. are found in different parts of Manipur. This evidence has thrown some light on the history and culture of Manipur. Among the remains, temples and tombs are considered as the most important monuments of religious architecture. The most important example of religious architecture is the temple of Shri Shri Govindaji, Imphal West, Temple of Lord Hanuman, Imphal east, etc. Staunch and devout Hindu rulers with their patronages helped to build a large number of temples and tombs in each and every parts of the state. However, architecture differs greatly from culture to culture. Generally, a temple or tomb was built on a raised platform with flight of steps in front. Its plan is square, sometimes rectangular. There is an inner sanctum. Round the sanctum is the covered path for circumambulation for the devotee. The sanctum is preceded by a porch and mandapa or hall for the congregation of worshipper and devotees. Among the Hindu temples and tombs of Manipur built in the early period was hut type such as Temple of Shri Krishna, Imphal East, Tomb of Maharaj Khaba, Tomb of Luwang Ningthou, Imphal West, Manipur etc.
Art, Architecture, Arch, Curvilinear, Cornice, Curve, Hut type, Pedestal, Porch, Pilaster, Roof, Sikhara, Sanctum, Temple, Tomb, Tower